Under the local authority swimming pool programme, 2000-2002, which is administered by my Department, there are four stages in a swimming pool project following the submission of a feasibility study. These, in order of progress, are: preliminary report; contract documents; tender and construction. My Department's technical advisers, the Office of Public Works, evaluate each stage and local authorities cannot proceed to the next stage of a project unless prior approval issues from my Department. Grant aid is allocated only when tenders have been received for the project and will be capped at the time of allocation.
On 9 September 2002, I approved the preliminary report in respect of the swimming pool in question. The next step is for Killarney Town Council to submit the contract documents for the project to my Department. However, the town council has recently been in contact with my Department and has advised that the council is considering a new location for the proposed pool. My Department is currently awaiting confirmation on this issue from the town council.
Under the swimming pool programme, grants of up to €3,809,214, IR£3 million, are available towards both the refurbishment of existing pools and the provision of new pools, subject in both cases to the total grant not exceeding 80% of the eligible cost of the project or, in the case of projects located in designated disadvantaged areas, 90% of the eligible cost. Support is available towards the cost of the swimming pool, toddler pool, sauna and steam room.
